Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
jeudi 6 avril 2017
Meet the 19-Year-Old Activist Fighting Against Child Marriage
Before she was even 15 years old, Memory Banda was already a seasoned activist. When she witnessed firsthand how women in her Malawi community were subjected to sexual initiation (which typically led to impregnation and marriage), Banda felt compelled to change the traditions. It was personal for Banda: her 11-year-old sister was forced to marry the man who impregnated her during such a ritual. Around the same time, Banda encountered the Girls Empowerment Network (GEN). She says the organization empowered her further to take on the challenges that would come with fighting long-established community traditions. Banda worked with GEN on a campaign to stop child marriages, organizing storytelling gatherings for women to share their experiences as child brides.
Banda, now 19, went on to lead a successful campaign to make 21 the legal age for marriage in Malawi. Harsh penalties have also been established for people who break these new laws: men who marry underage girls must pay a significant fine in goats, chickens, and land; parents who marry off their underage daughters are now required to perform public service in their local community.
On March 28, Banda spoke at the Professional Women in Business Conference, taking the stage right before Hillary Clinton. We spoke with Banda before her talk about her experience as an activist, educator, and woman - and her wisdom is astounding.
POPSUGAR: Were you in touch with the Girls Empowerment Network before or after you realized how unjustly marriage was approached in your community?
MB: It was right before. That was the time my little sister got pregnant and was forced to go marry the person who impregnated her. That was when I had all these crazy questions in my mind, like, "What is our culture? Why are girls being affected more?" I looked at the situation with my sister and thought, "No girl has to go through this."
POPSUGAR: You started literacy classes for young women in your community. Was there a particular moment that inspired you to start those classes? Was there ever any pushback from other people in the community about these classes?
MB: I'll take you back a little bit. I imagined what my sister would become, because she wouldn't go to school [after she got married]. People thought that once you get married, that's the end of you as a young person. But I looked at it in a very different way: if a young girl goes into marriage, that doesn't have to be the end of her. And [I initiated] these literacy classes.
I also learned a lot from them. In the literacy classes, these young women who were my age - young mothers - were able to tell me what they were going through . . . the problems they were facing every day. They were going through a series of abuses from their husbands. Financially they were unstable and dependent on the man. That's when I saw how big the problem of child marriage is. I moved on to talking to my traditional leaders about some of the effects and some of the negative traditions.
All these child marriage issues, by the end of the day, you would find the biggest linkages are the cultural norms and cultural traditions in the community. You see that the girl child is not really valued in the community. What she is valued most for is "Oh, you're going to get married, your husband will support your family, your parents will get support." That's the only value seen in girls. When I saw that, I felt like I could change that focal point.
POPSUGAR: What was the conversation with traditional leaders in your community like?
MB: It was hard. It was a bunch of young girls and an organization in the community. You know how an organization can implement a project and after one or two years, it's gone? So the leaders were just like, "We'll wait it out." They were so surprised that we were still talking about this. Personally, the empowerment that I got was very huge. I did not stop because I wanted to see the changes I could make in the community.
The first time I spoke, it was very hard because I was very small. I was very scared. Later on, when people were talking about us as young girls who don't respect the tradition, it was very sad to be told that you're not respecting the tradition of the community. I looked at it in a very different way. I felt like if these people are looking at us in this way, that means we're doing something that is changing us and them as traditional leaders. That's when I felt like, "Yeah, let me go on and do this."
POPSUGAR: You saw some very successful changes directly because of your activism; there's now a legal precedent for when a woman can get married in Malawi. How would you encourage women to keep fighting through the bureaucratic red tape? Do you have any advice?
MB: Absolutely. As women and girls globally, we always have to have that mind of trying. I think that's what has been pushing me all the time. Sometimes, when I sit down and feel like I might not see any positive results from what I am doing, I think about [how] some years back I didn't even know that this was where these things would take me to.
I've always been that kind of person pushing for what I believe in. It's very important that women and the girls all over the world also have to believe in ourselves and push for what we believe in. Even if it doesn't work out, at least you can say that you tried.
"As women, we have the power of influencing. We may not realize we're influencing someone at that moment or influencing something, [but] we have that power."
POPSUGAR: Is there a specific moment or memory when you realized your own strength and power?
MB: It takes me back to the first time I stood up and spoke in front of my traditional leaders - and then when I saw the changes that were coming behind me. When we were advocating for the raise of the legal marriage age, when I saw the support that I got, I was like, "Oh! I can do this!" I think that was the point of self realization. That's when I felt like it is possible for a person to do anything to try to change something.
POPSUGAR: Can you think of an anecdote which speaks to how you have transformed how men in your community view women?
MB At first it was very hard. In my country, there are a lot of patriarchal communities. It's all over, but in Africa, it's even worse. In particular, in Malawi, it's way worse. We have been used to seeing men stand up and speak in front of people. It has always been the norm. But then to see girls standing up - it was challenging that patriarchal tradition in my community.
Men looked at us and said, "Oh, look at them, they won't go far." They were surprised to see that we were still pushing for this, and little by little, we gained their respect and their understanding. Men having been supporting us in this activism in every possible way. It's just amazing to see my fellow young people, the boys just being there and supporting us. When we were doing the amendment of the constitution, our group was actually comprised of so many young men.
POPSUGAR: What are you working on right now? What are your future plans?
MB: First and foremost, I'll continue my advocacy work for girls' rights. Apart from that, I'm looking for future personal development - because I feel like, personally, I have to develop as well. I'm looking forward to finishing school, college.
I was telling my sister that apart from me pursuing my education, I've always wanted to do law, and I feel like I still have to pursue that. When I sit back and see what I've done, it leads to policies and law. For me to go through all these social campaigns, first I had to understand what the laws said, what the acts said, what other policies linked up to all these issues around me. If I go into the field of law, it will be so much easier for me to advocate and work.
POPSUGAR: What do you think the most beautiful thing about being a woman is?
MB: That's a tricky question. I love being a woman, but I don't even know how I can respond to that. There's so many things. I love being a woman because I feel like I've always been an influencer. Most of the time, when I am around men and I pose my ideas, critics come in. By the end of the day you see that you have spoken something that has influenced them. The men think that they're the ones who posed that idea, but I'm the one who did that.
As women, we have the power of influencing. We may not realize we're influencing someone at that moment or influencing something, [but] we have that power. We have that influencing power, and with that power, we can do a lot of things. It feels like trickery, but it's not really a trick. With that power, we can influence a lot of things around us. It's the skill of being a woman.
Follow Up After a Job Interview With This Email
It's very important to follow up after a job interview, because even if you think the interview went badly, keeping in touch may improve the interviewer's perception of you. It reflects persistence, and it's also polite to thank the hiring manager after the interview. Remember to also send the note within two days of the interview; although, if you've passed the two-day mark, a late response is better than no response.
There is such a thing as being too pushy, so keep it light, cheery, and professional. Here is a sample of the kind of email you should send:
Dear Interviewer,
It was great meeting you today, and I appreciate you taking the time to interview me. I'm excited to be considered for the (name the position) as well as all of the opportunities the company presents. I had a good time discussing my passion of (insert what you're passionate about) and really enjoyed learning more about (insert what new tidbit you learned about the company).
Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to following up with you.
Best,
Interviewee
Remember, you should have asked them when you'll hear about their decision at the end of the interview. If you've forgotten to do that, you can politely add the question to your follow-up email.
9 of the Most Unexpected Wedding Gifts Kate Middleton and Prince William Received
It's been almost six years since Kate Middleton and Prince William wed in a lavish ceremony at Westminster Abbey in London. Between the pair's tear-jerking wedding vows and Kate's stunning Alexander McQueen gown, there were so many beautiful moments. One thing we didn't see, though, was the couple opening presents. From a tandem bike to a furry friend, read on to find out what gifts Will and Kate received on their big day.
- A Cocker Spaniel. Kate's brother, James Middleton, gifted the couple their beloved pet dog, Lupo. The 6-year-old Cocker Spaniel is the offspring of Michael and Carole Middleton's dog Ella, and he even appeared in both Prince George's first and second official family portraits.
- Shoes. While it's unclear what type of shoes they were, the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs gave Kate three pairs.
- Earrings. Kate's parents presented the bride with a pair of pear-shaped diamond drop earrings by Robinson Pelham. The design was inspired by her family's new crest.
- A tandem bike. London's mayor Boris Johnson gifted the couple the bike. "I look forward to seeing the newlyweds on tandem wheels as they start their new life in Anglesey," he told a crowd at Trafalgar Square.
- A painting. An Indian artist from Amritsar painted a portrait of the pair as a wedding gift from the city.
- A song. Even though George Michael did not attend the royal affair, the late singer recorded a cover Stevie Wonder's 1972 ballad "You and I" in honor of Will and Kate's big day.
- A Land Rover. It's still not clear who gave the couple the Mountain Rescue Team vehicle, but Will and Kate ended up holding a drawing at Clarence House for the SUV, and donated it the Patterdale team in the Lake District, who then gifted the wheels to the Glossop Mountain Rescue Team.
- A Russian lacquered box. Russian President Dmitry Medvedev reportedly sent Will and Kate a lacquered box decorated with a 19th century Moscow Winter scene for their wedding.
- A charitable gift fund. The pair asked for donations in lieu of wedding gifts and set up the Royal Wedding Charitable Gift Fund. According to St. James's Palace, it generated $1.7 million and included 26 different charities.
Badass Teen Journalists Write Exposé That Forces Their Principal to Resign
When you're in high school, it's totally normal to wonder about your teachers' and administrators' lives, and with the help of social media, it typically isn't too difficult to dig up some details. But when these high school journalists in Pittsburg, KS, started unearthing information about their newly hired principal, they came up with more questions than answers. The group of editors and reporters from The Booster Redux, the Pittsburg High School newspaper, were gathering facts for a meeting with Principal Amy Robertson when they started to find discrepancies in her qualifications and background.
Principal Robertson was hired on March 6, and after weeks of investigating her background, the newspaper editors published an article about her background on April 3. "She was going to be the head of our school, and we wanted be assured that she was qualified and had the proper credentials," Trina Paul, an editor of the newspaper and a senior at the Kansas school, told The Kansas City Star. "We stumbled on some things that most might not consider legitimate credentials."
The article questioned the authenticity of Corllins University, the private institution where Robertson claimed she received her master's and doctorate degrees from, as there were no traces of this university's existence online. The six student journalists discovered that Corllins is not recognized by the US Department of Education, and it has been referred to as a "diploma mill" where "people can buy a degree, diploma, or certificates."
One day after the article was published, Principal Robertson resigned.
Administrators called a necessary meeting where the Pittsburg Community Schools Board of Education President Al Mendez announced the high school principal's resignation. "In light of the issues that arose, Dr. Robertson felt it was in the best interest of the district to resign her position," Pittsburg Community Schools later wrote in a statement. "The Board has agreed to accept her resignation."
When they started the feature article introducing their new principal, the students had no idea that this is what would come of it. "They were not out to get anyone to resign or to get anyone fired," Emily Smith, the school's journalism adviser, said, sharing how "very proud" she is of her students. "They worked very hard to uncover the truth."
Let's get these kids a Pulitzer for their impressive investigative journalism!
New Pittsburg, Kan., High School principal resigns after student journalists question her credentials https://t.co/rWD6Rz3aur
- The Kansas City Star (@KCStar) April 5, 2017
29 Spring Outfit Ideas to Borrow From Your Favorite Models
A little style inspiration is always necessary when dressing for a new season. It's not that we don't know how to wear the trends - we just desire a fresher, more creative way to rock our key pieces. While most of us can get instant inspiration from the 'gram, we look to select models who have springtime dressing down to a science.
From LA to NYC, they provide endless inspiration on the go, often in varying weather. You might assume their stylists are the gurus behind their impeccable looks (sometimes that's correct), but we're betting girls like Kendall Jenner and Elsa Hosk have an eagle eye of their own for what looks good. Ahead, we broke down all the models' best warm-weather outfits. Go ahead and borrow some dressing tips, then get your Spring shopping game on.
6- and 7-Year-Olds Couldn't Solve This Math Test Question, and We're Not Surprised
The internet is having a field day figuring out what the real answer is to a simple math problem. A Twitter user named Louise Bloxham shared a math problem from a Year 2 (equivalent to the first grade in the US) workbook. The tweet and account are now gone but the problem asked, "There were some people on a train. 19 people get off the train at the first stop. 17 people get on the train. Now there are 63 people on the train. How many people were on the train to begin with?"
If you try solving it yourself, you'll probably get this setup: X - 19 + 17 = 63. All you have to do is solve for x, which gives you 65 as the answer:
@rachelrossiter @LouiseBloxham @MichaelRosenYes It is 65. x - 19 + 17 = 63
Therefore x -2 = 63 ...x = 65. Algebraic solution for a y2 Q.- Robyn Duckworth (@DuckworthRobyn) May 8, 2016
But if you look further into the comments, users start arguing that the answer is 46, not 65.
@teach_well @carveresque on a teacher's FB group a teacher said it was on the mark scheme as Being 46
- Louise Bloxham (@LouiseBloxham) May 8, 2016
Other commentators became philosophical and said that the math problem fails to factor in the train driver and inspector:
@PotMoss @MichaelRosenYes @LouiseBloxham Husband says "66, because we've forgotten train driver". But that doesn't factor in inspector...
- Mrs Davison (@Mrs_Dav_I_Son) May 8, 2016
The situation apparently became too much for one person, who said that everyone was "looking at it algebraically for proof purposes," when it was really just a simple equation.
@LouiseBloxham @MichaelRosenYes Question is perfectly fine. We are looking at it algebraically for proof purposes but it's simple add + sub.
- Olachi Akin (@ixXAkinXxi) May 9, 2016
Although the math question has stumped some parents and young children, the main concern here is not whether or not it can be solved, but if 6- and 7-year-olds should've been asked it. That answer to that question is simple: if there's this much debate about it with adults, then it's not suitable for children.
This post was originally published on May 10, 2016.
These 35 Tandem Breastfeeding Photos Prove That Moms Are Badass
The female body is incredible - it allows you to grow and birth humans, feed those humans, and then spend a lifetime (or at least the toddler years) running after them. Never thinking twice about doing a million things at once, moms are always ready to put their babies first, even when that means two of their children want to eat at the same time - and they both still nurse.
Scroll through for 35 photos of tandem breastfeeding that prove moms and their bodies are absolutely incredible.
20 Filling Foods to Keep You Feeling Full
Well-balanced meals and snacks are both important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But whether it's because you find yourself mindlessly snacking or because your meals aren't keeping you as full as you'd like, sometimes you need something to keep you from rummaging through the pantry. Here are 20 appetite-suppressing foods that keep you feeling full!
13 Books to Read If You Loved 13 Reasons Why
Netflix's newest original series, 13 Reasons Why, follows Clay Jensen, a high school student who is given 13 audiotapes from his best friend, Hannah Baker, that explain why she chose to kill herself. As he listens to the tapes, he uncovers shocking secrets about Hannah and his other classmates. The show, which features Selena Gomez as an executive producer, is based off of Jay Asher's 2007 YA novel of the same name. The narrative delves into complex issues such as bullying, sexual assault, suicide, betrayal, and more. For similar stories, check out these other captivating novels.
These 35 Tandem Breastfeeding Photos Prove That Moms Are Badass
The female body is incredible - it allows you to grow and birth humans, feed those humans, and then spend a lifetime (or at least the toddler years) running after them. Never thinking twice about doing a million things at once, moms are always ready to put their babies first, even when that means two of their children want to eat at the same time - and they both still nurse.
Scroll through for 35 photos of tandem breastfeeding that prove moms and their bodies are absolutely incredible.
This Coroner's Important Warning About Bath Time That Every Parent Needs to Hear
Seven-month-old Alex McCartney was taking a bath with his older sister after a day filled with playing in the snow. His mother, Joanne Pedlow, stepped out of the room - she had gone downstairs to quickly heat up water and was momentarily sidetracked by guests at her front door - but came racing back when she heard her 2-year-old daughter's desperate screams. Unfortunately, Joanne didn't make it back to the bathroom in time.
Despite trying desperately to resuscitate her baby, the mother from Northern Ireland was unable to save her son.
Even though Joanne had placed Alex in his blue baby bath seat, next to his sister, with the water only up to his belly button, Alex was found face-first in the water with his bottom sticking up out of the bubbles. According to Joanne, the bath seat was secured to the tub with suction cups and the bath water did not reach past the bath seat's water level marker.
"He was quite a big child and was quite heavy, I think he had leaned forward and toppled [the seat] over," Joanne said.
When paramedics arrived, they were unable to find Alex's pulse, and the little boy died, in his mother's arms, four days later at the hospital. The coroner on his case hopes that this tragedy will prevent another child from losing his or her life. Any amount of time - even just for a quick minute to run downstairs - is too long to leave a little one unattended in the bath.
"This has highlighted the important issue for parents about the dangers posed when a child is left unsupervised for a short period of time and even in the shallowest of water," Suzanne Anderson said in court. "Hopefully this message will serve to spare the agony this family has had to endure."
14 Grocery Staples I Always Have as a 20-Something on a Budget
As a 24-year-old who has just started out in the professional world, I know how hard it can be to get your life together. You're supposed to find a job, live on your own, cook for yourself, and find the time to exercise, which, unfortunately, I don't think includes walking to the kitchen for snack breaks in between TV episodes. When you have so much going on - especially when you're on a budget - one thing that some people dread is grocery shopping. I personally love it, but it took a little practice to figure out a routine and a grocery list that worked for me. As someone who loves to cook, there are certain things I like to have on hand all the time. These are 14 budget-approved staples I always have stocked in my kitchen.
Selena Gomez Gets an A+ For Athleisure - but That's Not Why You'll Love This Look
When Selena Gomez took her family to Disneyland, she was casually dressed down in a navy Adidas pullover and matching sweats. The athleisure ensemble was cute and cozy, but it didn't exactly scream "I'm at Disneyland!" That is, until we saw a glimpse of the grooviest Alice in Wonderland bag. The '70s-style graphics, printed on the front of her shoulder bag, referenced several characters and important items (the potion bottle!) from the animated film, and it was this accessory that completely changed the direction of Selena's theme-park look.
She may not have worn Mickey Mouse ears like some other celebs who have gone to Disneyland, but the whimsical bag proved she's truly a Disney girl at heart. Not a bad choice as a carryall to one of the happiest places on Earth. Selena then topped off her comfy look with her trusted Converse x Jack Purcell low tops. Scroll on to have a closer look at the Alice in Wonderland piece yourself.
13 Reasons Why: Here's the Beautiful Song Playing at the Dance
The 13 Reasons Why soundtrack is a brilliant collection of songs, but there's one track in particular that will haunt you. It plays several times when the show flashes back to the school dance, as Clay (Dhttps://www.popsugar.com/entertainment/What-Has-Dylan-Minnette-Been-43362606ylan Minnette) and Hannah (Katherine Langford) dance together. It's called "The Night We Met," and it's off Lord Huron's 2015 album Strange Trails. The melody is beautifully melancholic, and it's even more poignant when you consider the lyrics: "Take me back to the night we met / I don't know what I'm supposed to do / Haunted by the ghost of you / Take me back to the night we met / When the night was full of terrors / And your eyes were filled with tears / When you had not touched me yet / Take me back to the night we met." Here's the track on its own:
The 1 Way Queen Elizabeth II Can Make or Break a Royal Marriage
Image Source: Getty / Pool
Prince Harry's relationship with Suits actress Meghan Markle has many people pining for another royal wedding, but zero bells will be ringing for the couple until Meghan impresses his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II - and gets it in writing. Due to the Royal Marriages Act 1772, the monarch has the right to veto the marriage of a member of his or her family and is required to give formal consent to any family marriages in order to guard against those that could "diminish the status of the royal house." The fact that Meghan is a divorcée - she was married to Trevor Engelson from 2011 to 2013 - has been widely speculated to hurt her chances, but it actually won't. Not only have modern royal marriage rules become more lax than in previous years, but the queen has technically dealt with that kind of drama before.
Image Source: Hugo Burnand / AFP / Getty Images
While the Royal Marriages Act originally meant that all royal family members needed consent from Queen Elizabeth in order to marry, a change in the law in 2013 now only applies to the six people closest in line to the throne - Prince Charles, Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Harry, and Prince Andrew - who need to seek out the queen's permission before popping the question. With the birth of Charlotte in May 2015, Princess Beatrice of York became seventh in line and her sister Eugenie slid down to eighth, so they can essentially marry whoever they want without checking with their grandmother first.
Before proposing to Kate Middleton in October 2010, Prince William had to get the thumbs up from Queen Elizabeth, and according to BBC News, she "readily gave her consent." Elizabeth signed an detailed notice of approval to the union of "Our Most Dearly Beloved Grandson Prince William Arthur Philip Louis of Wales, K.G. and Our Trusty and Well-beloved Catherine Elizabeth Middleton." The notice was dated Feb. 9, 2011, just two months before Kate and William tied the knot.
Though it's been reported that Harry is "besotted" with Meghan and that she's met his father, brother, and sister-in-law so far, she has yet to meet the queen. If Harry is looking to propose, he'll likely need to earn the queen's blessing sometime soon; and if she objects to Meghan as a worthy wife or feels that she isn't a good addition to the family, she has the right to rule their marriage "invalid." That's right - Harry's grandma could literally say "Nah" and his plans to tie the knot could come crashing down.
Contrary to popular belief, there are no rules that require a prince to marry someone of royal or aristocratic blood, or even a British citizen - but religion is where it gets dicey.It's not something she has ever done, and she likely wouldn't start with an American actress. Contrary to popular belief, there are no rules that require a prince to marry someone of royal or aristocratic blood, or even a British citizen (and in the case of Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, an incoming royal can even be divorced) - but religion is where it gets dicey. There is no legal barrier that keeps a royal from marrying someone of Jewish, Buddhist, or Muslim faith, or even an atheist, but under the Act of Settlement of 1701, no one in the direct line of succession could marry a Catholic and keep their right to the throne. This is because the monarch also serves as Head of the Protestant Anglican Church of England, which was established back in the 16th century by Henry VIII. In 2015, amendments were made that now allow royal family members to marry a Roman Catholic and become king or queen - however, a Roman Catholic royal still cannot become the monarch. For instance, if Prince George marries a Catholic and raises his children in that faith, they could be prohibited from taking the throne.
Image Source: Odd Anderson / AFP / Getty Images
Where her divorce is concerned, Harry's girlfriend shouldn't be too worried. There have been a handful of royal family members who have past marriages and those who have carried on relationships with divorcées. Perhaps most famous was Elizabeth's uncle, Edward VIII, who abdicated the throne in 1936 to marry his divorced American socialite mistress Wallis Simpson, which resulted in Elizabeth's father George VI becoming king. In the '50s, the queen's sister, Princess Margaret, ended her relationship with divorced Group Captain Peter Townsend in favor of her royal status (and went on to get divorced some 30 years later). And as we all know, the queen's eldest son Prince Charles split from Princess Diana and went on to marry his mistress, Camilla Parker Bowles. It was Elizabeth who, likely fed up with doing damage control for Charles and Diana's extramarital affairs, urged the couple to divorce. In December 1995, Buckingham Palace announced that the queen had written separate letters to the couple advising them that "an early divorce is desirable" - an unprecedented move at the time. Their divorce was finalized in August 1996, but as the mother of heirs to the throne, Diana remained an official member of the royal family until her death the following year.
Prince Charles sought the approval of his mother before proposing to Camilla, and their engagement was announced in February 2005. The following month, the queen released her official letter of consent to their union, and the two were married at Windsor Guildhall in England on April 9, followed by a Church of England Service of Prayer and Dedication at St. George's Chapel. Charles is the first member of the royal family to have a civil ceremony rather than a religious wedding, and his parents were not in attendance for their town hall event. It was reported that because the queen "does take her role as Supreme Governor of the Church of England very seriously," she felt it would "be inappropriate to attend that particular part of the wedding." She and Philip were there for the prayer and dedication service and also held a reception for the newlyweds in Windsor Castle.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are still quite a new couple by most relationship standards, but should they start talking marriage, she'll likely have a pretty easy time becoming a princess - because while marrying into the royal family isn't exactly a piece of cake, there are fewer hoops to jump through than most would think.
Why I'm Not Ashamed to Talk About My Mental Illness
I've always been an anxious person. As a child I refused to make phone calls other than to those in my family and couldn't even handle calling 411 (even after it became an automated voice recording). Talking to people terrified me. What if I misspoke? What if they thought I sounded dumb? What if I didn't make sense? So, when anxiety presented itself again halfway through college, I couldn't say it was a shock.
The anxiety I experienced as a young adult was very different from the anxiety I felt as a kid. At 19, anxiety stretched beyond phone calls. I had general unease towards everything beyond my bedroom door. I felt like there was an immeasurable weight on my chest that was preventing me from getting anything done.
I knew I had to get to the bottom of what was going on and try to resolve it, and this is what I learned.
But I knew it wasn't my fault that I had anxiety and depression
Reflecting on my family's history of mental illness and my life experiences helped me to understand that having mental disorders wasn't something I could have prevented. No one asks for a mental illness, so no one should be blamed or shamed for having one. A lack of understanding can cause people battling a mental disorder to feel as though it is their fault for "being this/that way." But, accepting that my anxiety and depression onset was out of my control helped me to be less hard on myself and get the absolute most out of my treatment.
Receiving treatment wasn't a sign of weakness, it was a sign of strength
I saw it as courageous that I was able to throw up my arms and admit that I couldn't "tough it out." Having incredibly understanding and supportive parents also didn't hurt when the time came to ask for help. After consulting them, as well as my psychiatrist, we came up with a treatment plan that I was on board with. A year and a half ago I chose to begin taking an SSRI medication that helps with both my anxiety and depression. My prescription, paired with talk therapy, provided invaluable support and helped me live without apprehension or fear. Since then, I'm able to run errands without becoming overwhelmed and I can manage a social life, schoolwork, and a healthy lifestyle. Also, I no longer to go to bed with uneasiness that I'll have no motivation get up in the morning. Treatment has given me balance, and I know I was strong for asking for it.
I wasn't the only one
It was easy to feel isolated when I was experiencing something the majority of people might not have to go through. But I quickly discovered that some of those closest to me were fighting mental battles of their own. A lifelong role model, a best friend, and a member of my immediate family were just a few of the people who chose to confide in me about their past or current struggles with mental disorders. I found comfort in the fact that some of the most intelligent, well-rounded, successful people in my life had or were experiencing something similar to me.
My mental illnesses do not define me
The people I mentioned above helped me realize that it's okay that my brain might not be "normal." I am at peace with this, as my mental disorders do not determine my character or capabilities. If anything, they make me a more compassionate and resilient person, so I wouldn't change a thing. Mental illness is a part of me, and talking about that makes me feel empowered, not ashamed.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Pork Chops
Fact: pork chops (like this sweet and sour glazed recipe) can be enticing. They're also affordable, easy-to-cook cuts of meat that can be incredibly tasty when made well. To breathe some inspiration into your dinner rotation, we've gathered only the best pork chop recipes from some of our favorite celebrity chefs and Food Network experts. These are the cooking methods and recipes they swear by for crave-worthy chops you'll actually look forward to making. Spoiler: none of them involve apple sauce.
Ree Drummond: Pan Fried
The Pioneer Woman just might be the queen of recipes that are both easy and comforting, and her pan-fried pork chop recipe definitely qualifies. You only need a few basics (flour, salt, pepper, cayenne, canola oil, and butter) to make a crispy, juicy pork chop.
Alton Brown: Molasses and Coffee Glazed
You might need to make a special trip to the store for Alton Brown's molasses and coffee pork chops, but it's totally worth it. Commenters have mentioned they love the teriyaki-like marinade so much that they use it on chicken, too. If you have a little extra time on your hands (to marinate the meat for at least two hours), your taste buds will be rewarded.
Giada De Laurentiis: Parmesan Crusted
Giada is among the loyal group that believes parmesan cheese makes everything better, including pork. Her parmesan-crusted pork chop recipe calls for parmesan plus Italian breadcrumbs, ensuring a crispy and flavor-loaded exterior as they crisp up in an oiled pan.
Sunny Anderson: Simply Grilled
The best part about Sunny Anderson's easy grilled pork chop recipe is that even if you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can make the recipe using a regular pan, too. After you let the chops sit in a marinade of honey, oil, apple cider vinegar, and cumin for about an hour, you're on your way to superquick and easy pork chops, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Tyler Florence: Smothered
Chef Tyler Florence knows you should never let pan drippings go to waste. His smothered pork chop is indeed smothered in a creamy gravy made by deglazing the pan with chicken broth, then adding buttermilk. It's what to make when you really need indulgent, home-style comfort food in your life.
Related:
17 Tiny and Adorable Disney Princess Tattoos
There's no reason you shouldn't make your Disney princess obsession permanent. You can show your love for all our favorite ladies with a tiny tattoo that will make a small and sweet statement.
20 Burritos You'll Devour as Soon as They're Ready
There's something so satisfying about munching on a burrito. It could be the fact that it's a better version of a delicious sandwich that basically involves no mess - how wonderful is it that any and all overflow goes into the tinfoil surrounding the tortilla? - or maybe it's that its well-seasoned insides are usually cheesy and so incredibly filling. Either way, it doesn't matter. Whatever it is, it keeps us coming back for more.
And because we can't get enough of burritos (California, Tex-Mex, traditional - we love them all), we've rounded up 20 recipes that'll keep our addiction going strong. Keep scrolling to find those irresistible options.
Why I Held My Son Up by One Leg at Target
It had to be done. I had no other choice.
Let me explain why I had to hold my son up by one leg in the middle of Target . . .
Just yesterday I found myself at Target. I had somehow managed to find a shopping cart that didn't have a squeaky wheel. I was so proud of myself. And because it didn't squeal like an upset child the whole way down the aisle, I had high hopes for my little shopping trip.
Owen sat sweetly in the front of the cart as I began to look at all of the different cards and party supplies. As I passed red balloons and bright green and blue gift bags, I noticed the bright fluorescent lights and elevator-sounding music that was playing. Owen didn't seem to notice. He was too busy playing with his little black seat belt. I turned my attention back to the party supplies. And for a whole minute I peacefully enjoyed all the different party options.
Owen was being quiet. That should have been my first clue.
If you are a mother, then you know that when there is silence, a mother's attention is needed. But by the time my eyes found Owen, he was escaping from his seat like a little wiggle worm. In a split second, he was standing up in the front of the cart, backward, and trying to break free from his seat belt! When I started to grab him, I had to unbuckle him in order to help him not be stuck.
If Owen could talk, I know he would have yelled, "Freedom!" Because the moment I unfastened his seat belt, he jumped. He dove toward the back of the cart head first as he tried to make his escape.
I literally caught him by one leg.
It had to be done. I had no other choice. I had to grab my son by one leg and hold him up midair. There I was, holding my 9-month-old upside down in the middle of Target.
Half snickering to myself, the rhyme, "Catch a tiger by his toe . . . " came to mind. But before I burst into laughter, I started freaking out. What if someone saw me? I could just imagine someone speaking over the intercom, "Crazy mom on aisle three! Get her!"
Thankfully no one saw our little stunt.
The 10 Pictures You'll Want to Take of Your Tots Each Month
If you're anything like us, since you've had kids, you rarely put your camera down! While it's fun to simply snap away, I turned to mom and photographer Jennifer Little, founder of Fort Collins, CO-based Sugar Photography, to see what she considers to be the essential photos to take of her kids each month, ultimately creating a chronicle of her little ones' growth. Keep reading to see what she includes on her list!
20 Filling Foods to Keep You Feeling Full
Well-balanced meals and snacks are both important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But whether it's because you find yourself mindlessly snacking or because your meals aren't keeping you as full as you'd like, sometimes you need something to keep you from rummaging through the pantry. Here are 20 appetite-suppressing foods that keep you feeling full!
13 Reasons Why: Here's the Beautiful Song Playing at the Dance
The 13 Reasons Why soundtrack is a brilliant collection of songs, but there's one track in particular that will haunt you. It plays several times when the show flashes back to the school dance, as Clay (Dhttps://www.popsugar.com/entertainment/What-Has-Dylan-Minnette-Been-43362606ylan Minnette) and Hannah (Katherine Langford) dance together. It's called "The Night We Met," and it's off Lord Huron's 2015 album Strange Trails. The melody is beautifully melancholic, and it's even more poignant when you consider the lyrics: "Take me back to the night we met / I don't know what I'm supposed to do / Haunted by the ghost of you / Take me back to the night we met / When the night was full of terrors / And your eyes were filled with tears / When you had not touched me yet / Take me back to the night we met." Here's the track on its own:
14 Grocery Staples I Always Have as a 20-Something on a Budget
As a 24-year-old who has just started out in the professional world, I know how hard it can be to get your life together. You're supposed to find a job, live on your own, cook for yourself, and find the time to exercise, which, unfortunately, I don't think includes walking to the kitchen for snack breaks in between TV episodes. When you have so much going on - especially when you're on a budget - one thing that some people dread is grocery shopping. I personally love it, but it took a little practice to figure out a routine and a grocery list that worked for me. As someone who loves to cook, there are certain things I like to have on hand all the time. These are 14 budget-approved staples I always have stocked in my kitchen.
This Coroner's Important Warning About Bath Time That Every Parent Needs to Hear
Seven-month-old Alex McCartney was taking a bath with his older sister after a day filled with playing in the snow. His mother, Joanne Pedlow, stepped out of the room - she had gone downstairs to quickly heat up water and was momentarily sidetracked by guests at her front door - but came racing back when she heard her 2-year-old daughter's desperate screams. Unfortunately, Joanne didn't make it back to the bathroom in time.
Despite trying desperately to resuscitate her baby, the mother from Northern Ireland was unable to save her son.
Even though Joanne had placed Alex in his blue baby bath seat, next to his sister, with the water only up to his belly button, Alex was found face-first in the water with his bottom sticking up out of the bubbles. According to Joanne, the bath seat was secured to the tub with suction cups and the bath water did not reach past the bath seat's water level marker.
"He was quite a big child and was quite heavy, I think he had leaned forward and toppled [the seat] over," Joanne said.
When paramedics arrived, they were unable to find Alex's pulse, and the little boy died, in his mother's arms, four days later at the hospital. The coroner on his case hopes that this tragedy will prevent another child from losing his or her life. Any amount of time - even just for a quick minute to run downstairs - is too long to leave a little one unattended in the bath.
"This has highlighted the important issue for parents about the dangers posed when a child is left unsupervised for a short period of time and even in the shallowest of water," Suzanne Anderson said in court. "Hopefully this message will serve to spare the agony this family has had to endure."
The 1 Way Queen Elizabeth II Can Make or Break a Royal Marriage
Image Source: Getty / Pool
Prince Harry's relationship with Suits actress Meghan Markle has many people pining for another royal wedding, but zero bells will be ringing for the couple until Meghan impresses his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II - and gets it in writing. Due to the Royal Marriages Act 1772, the monarch has the right to veto the marriage of a member of his or her family and is required to give formal consent to any family marriages in order to guard against those that could "diminish the status of the royal house." The fact that Meghan is a divorcée - she was married to Trevor Engelson from 2011 to 2013 - has been widely speculated to hurt her chances, but it actually won't. Not only have modern royal marriage rules become more lax than in previous years, but the queen has technically dealt with that kind of drama before.
Image Source: Hugo Burnand / AFP / Getty Images
While the Royal Marriages Act originally meant that all royal family members needed consent from Queen Elizabeth in order to marry, a change in the law in 2013 now only applies to the six people closest in line to the throne - Prince Charles, Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Harry, and Prince Andrew - who need to seek out the queen's permission before popping the question. With the birth of Charlotte in May 2015, Princess Beatrice of York became seventh in line and her sister Eugenie slid down to eighth, so they can essentially marry whoever they want without checking with their grandmother first.
Before proposing to Kate Middleton in October 2010, Prince William had to get the thumbs up from Queen Elizabeth, and according to BBC News, she "readily gave her consent." Elizabeth signed an detailed notice of approval to the union of "Our Most Dearly Beloved Grandson Prince William Arthur Philip Louis of Wales, K.G. and Our Trusty and Well-beloved Catherine Elizabeth Middleton." The notice was dated Feb. 9, 2011, just two months before Kate and William tied the knot.
Though it's been reported that Harry is "besotted" with Meghan and that she's met his father, brother, and sister-in-law so far, she has yet to meet the queen. If Harry is looking to propose, he'll likely need to earn the queen's blessing sometime soon; and if she objects to Meghan as a worthy wife or feels that she isn't a good addition to the family, she has the right to rule their marriage "invalid." That's right - Harry's grandma could literally say "Nah" and his plans to tie the knot could come crashing down.
Contrary to popular belief, there are no rules that require a prince to marry someone of royal or aristocratic blood, or even a British citizen - but religion is where it gets dicey.It's not something she has ever done, and she likely wouldn't start with an American actress. Contrary to popular belief, there are no rules that require a prince to marry someone of royal or aristocratic blood, or even a British citizen (and in the case of Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, an incoming royal can even be divorced) - but religion is where it gets dicey. There is no legal barrier that keeps a royal from marrying someone of Jewish, Buddhist, or Muslim faith, or even an atheist, but under the Act of Settlement of 1701, no one in the direct line of succession could marry a Catholic and keep their right to the throne. This is because the monarch also serves as Head of the Protestant Anglican Church of England, which was established back in the 16th century by Henry VIII. In 2015, amendments were made that now allow royal family members to marry a Roman Catholic and become king or queen - however, a Roman Catholic royal still cannot become the monarch. For instance, if Prince George marries a Catholic and raises his children in that faith, they could be prohibited from taking the throne.
Image Source: Odd Anderson / AFP / Getty Images
Where her divorce is concerned, Harry's girlfriend shouldn't be too worried. There have been a handful of royal family members who have past marriages and those who have carried on relationships with divorcées. Perhaps most famous was Elizabeth's uncle, Edward VIII, who abdicated the throne in 1936 to marry his divorced American socialite mistress Wallis Simpson, which resulted in Elizabeth's father George VI becoming king. In the '50s, the queen's sister, Princess Margaret, ended her relationship with divorced Group Captain Peter Townsend in favor of her royal status (and went on to get divorced some 30 years later). And as we all know, the queen's eldest son Prince Charles split from Princess Diana and went on to marry his mistress, Camilla Parker Bowles. It was Elizabeth who, likely fed up with doing damage control for Charles and Diana's extramarital affairs, urged the couple to divorce. In December 1995, Buckingham Palace announced that the queen had written separate letters to the couple advising them that "an early divorce is desirable" - an unprecedented move at the time. Their divorce was finalized in August 1996, but as the mother of heirs to the throne, Diana remained an official member of the royal family until her death the following year.
Prince Charles sought the approval of his mother before proposing to Camilla, and their engagement was announced in February 2005. The following month, the queen released her official letter of consent to their union, and the two were married at Windsor Guildhall in England on April 9, followed by a Church of England Service of Prayer and Dedication at St. George's Chapel. Charles is the first member of the royal family to have a civil ceremony rather than a religious wedding, and his parents were not in attendance for their town hall event. It was reported that because the queen "does take her role as Supreme Governor of the Church of England very seriously," she felt it would "be inappropriate to attend that particular part of the wedding." She and Philip were there for the prayer and dedication service and also held a reception for the newlyweds in Windsor Castle.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are still quite a new couple by most relationship standards, but should they start talking marriage, she'll likely have a pretty easy time becoming a princess - because while marrying into the royal family isn't exactly a piece of cake, there are fewer hoops to jump through than most would think.
20 Burritos You'll Devour as Soon as They're Ready
There's something so satisfying about munching on a burrito. It could be the fact that it's a better version of a delicious sandwich that basically involves no mess - how wonderful is it that any and all overflow goes into the tinfoil surrounding the tortilla? - or maybe it's that its well-seasoned insides are usually cheesy and so incredibly filling. Either way, it doesn't matter. Whatever it is, it keeps us coming back for more.
And because we can't get enough of burritos (California, Tex-Mex, traditional - we love them all), we've rounded up 20 recipes that'll keep our addiction going strong. Keep scrolling to find those irresistible options.
Why I Held My Son Up by One Leg at Target
It had to be done. I had no other choice.
Let me explain why I had to hold my son up by one leg in the middle of Target . . .
Just yesterday I found myself at Target. I had somehow managed to find a shopping cart that didn't have a squeaky wheel. I was so proud of myself. And because it didn't squeal like an upset child the whole way down the aisle, I had high hopes for my little shopping trip.
Owen sat sweetly in the front of the cart as I began to look at all of the different cards and party supplies. As I passed red balloons and bright green and blue gift bags, I noticed the bright fluorescent lights and elevator-sounding music that was playing. Owen didn't seem to notice. He was too busy playing with his little black seat belt. I turned my attention back to the party supplies. And for a whole minute I peacefully enjoyed all the different party options.
Owen was being quiet. That should have been my first clue.
If you are a mother, then you know that when there is silence, a mother's attention is needed. But by the time my eyes found Owen, he was escaping from his seat like a little wiggle worm. In a split second, he was standing up in the front of the cart, backward, and trying to break free from his seat belt! When I started to grab him, I had to unbuckle him in order to help him not be stuck.
If Owen could talk, I know he would have yelled, "Freedom!" Because the moment I unfastened his seat belt, he jumped. He dove toward the back of the cart head first as he tried to make his escape.
I literally caught him by one leg.
It had to be done. I had no other choice. I had to grab my son by one leg and hold him up midair. There I was, holding my 9-month-old upside down in the middle of Target.
Half snickering to myself, the rhyme, "Catch a tiger by his toe . . . " came to mind. But before I burst into laughter, I started freaking out. What if someone saw me? I could just imagine someone speaking over the intercom, "Crazy mom on aisle three! Get her!"
Thankfully no one saw our little stunt.
The 10 Pictures You'll Want to Take of Your Tots Each Month
If you're anything like us, since you've had kids, you rarely put your camera down! While it's fun to simply snap away, I turned to mom and photographer Jennifer Little, founder of Fort Collins, CO-based Sugar Photography, to see what she considers to be the essential photos to take of her kids each month, ultimately creating a chronicle of her little ones' growth. Keep reading to see what she includes on her list!
Cop's Actions Shock a Mom Who Was Pulled Over Because Her Foster Kids Were Not in Car Seats
When a foster mom was called to take in a set of brothers, they arrived with the clothes on their backs - no extra clothes, coats, toys, or car seats. So when she was pulled over with two of the boys in the back seat of the car the next morning by a Tennessee State Trooper, his first question was unsurprisingly, "Why are the two boys in the back seat not in car seats?"
After she explained her situation, rather than give her a ticket, she says Officer Tidwell was kind to her and the boys. "He asked me for my phone number. I gave it to him," the mom wrote in a post on her personal Facebook, which the Tennessee Highway Patrol page then shared.
His wife called me and asked about the boys. This morning Officer Tidwell met me in Waverly, him and his wife had purchased gifts for the boys. Not just the two boys in the back seat but, their older brother too. I can not thank him enough for the kindness he has shown these three boys. I never asked him for anything. He and his wife acted out of the kindness of their hearts.
Although the mother was grateful for the generosity he showed her and the boys specifically, she's sharing his actions for a much larger reason. "He showed these boys that there are very nice cops out there and I hope he has left a lasting impression on them that cops are good. The boys has been telling everyone that 'cops are nice.' He has made their day. You hear way too much negative stuff nowadays, so here is some good news for you all."
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Pork Chops
Fact: pork chops (like this sweet and sour glazed recipe) can be enticing. They're also affordable, easy-to-cook cuts of meat that can be incredibly tasty when made well. To breathe some inspiration into your dinner rotation, we've gathered only the best pork chop recipes from some of our favorite celebrity chefs and Food Network experts. These are the cooking methods and recipes they swear by for crave-worthy chops you'll actually look forward to making. Spoiler: none of them involve apple sauce.
Ree Drummond: Pan Fried
The Pioneer Woman just might be the queen of recipes that are both easy and comforting, and her pan-fried pork chop recipe definitely qualifies. You only need a few basics (flour, salt, pepper, cayenne, canola oil, and butter) to make a crispy, juicy pork chop.
Alton Brown: Molasses and Coffee Glazed
You might need to make a special trip to the store for Alton Brown's molasses and coffee pork chops, but it's totally worth it. Commenters have mentioned they love the teriyaki-like marinade so much that they use it on chicken, too. If you have a little extra time on your hands (to marinate the meat for at least two hours), your taste buds will be rewarded.
Giada De Laurentiis: Parmesan Crusted
Giada is among the loyal group that believes parmesan cheese makes everything better, including pork. Her parmesan-crusted pork chop recipe calls for parmesan plus Italian breadcrumbs, ensuring a crispy and flavor-loaded exterior as they crisp up in an oiled pan.
Sunny Anderson: Simply Grilled
The best part about Sunny Anderson's easy grilled pork chop recipe is that even if you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can make the recipe using a regular pan, too. After you let the chops sit in a marinade of honey, oil, apple cider vinegar, and cumin for about an hour, you're on your way to superquick and easy pork chops, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Tyler Florence: Smothered
Chef Tyler Florence knows you should never let pan drippings go to waste. His smothered pork chop is indeed smothered in a creamy gravy made by deglazing the pan with chicken broth, then adding buttermilk. It's what to make when you really need indulgent, home-style comfort food in your life.
Related:
20 Filling Foods to Keep You Feeling Full
Well-balanced meals and snacks are both important for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But whether it's because you find yourself mindlessly snacking or because your meals aren't keeping you as full as you'd like, sometimes you need something to keep you from rummaging through the pantry. Here are 20 appetite-suppressing foods that keep you feeling full!
After Running For 15 Years, I Made This Change and Finally Lost My Belly
I started running after college to lose that freshman 40 I was holding onto. I learned a lot along the way, like what socks prevent blisters and how to shop for a sports bra so you don't have to wear two. But what I struggled with was losing weight, specifically belly fat. And after 15 years of running and experiencing two pregnancies, that still-pudgy pooch - although a sweet reminder that I was my kids' first home - was always the thing I pinched and poked when standing in front of a mirror.
So I signed up for a half marathon. I was convinced that all those training runs would surely slim my middle, but when I stepped on the scale, I was completely wrong. I was gaining weight because the hunger that came with those long workouts made me want to eat all the time. After the race, although I made some changes to my eating schedule to lose the weight I'd gained during training, my squishy belly wasn't budging, and it pissed me off. It wasn't like I was going to run more often or for longer distances. It was quite by accident that I figured out how running could help me ditch my mummy tummy.
One morning, I skipped the hour-long flat road run and turned into the woods near my house. I let my dog, Reuben, off leash, and we just started running. My pace was much slower because the terrain was so unpredictable. Rain had eroded away the path, creating holes, plus the slippery wooden bridges, the rocks and logs to leap over, and the hills - man, were there hills! I was huffing and puffing way more than on my previous runs, and my quads, calves, and butt were burning. I had to swing my arms more to get up those steep inclines, and trying to catch up to my dog added a little fire to my step. At the end of my 20-minute run, I felt like I did after running one hour.
After just two weeks of running those trails and those crazy hills, I felt an incredible sense of strength in my legs I hadn't experienced before in the 12 weeks I was training for the half. In the obstacle course that is the woods, my muscles were constantly guessing, since running in the woods is completely different than running on a sidewalk or a treadmill. It's like a dance because there's no monotony of movement. Every step is a little different, a little shift to one side or the other, a little shorter or longer than the one before.
Interval training had always seemed so forced when running through my neighborhood: I felt a little weird sprinting past my neighbor's house, so I skipped them and just stuck to my 9:00/9:30 minute-per-mile pace. But the hills forced me to switch up my pace, and I knew this type of training would be the key to ditching my tummy. Running this way was also really challenging to my mind. I felt a complete sense of calm afterward that I wasn't able to get to unless I did a long training run. Instant runner's high in just 20 minutes? I was floored.
And the added perk? My belly looked slimmer. I could see definition in my obliques - I had obliques! By no means am I saying I have a six-pack after a month of running in the woods, but I see now that I was pushing myself in the wrong way. I was working harder, not smarter. If you're struggling with a weight-loss plateau from running, the answer for you, too, might be found in the woods.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Deviled Eggs
'Tis the season for deviled eggs, and we've got a fresh batch of recipe inspiration from your favorite chefs. Take a break from traditional deviled eggs and add crab like Giada De Laurentiis, smoked salmon à la Ina Garten, or pink peppercorns if you're channeling Alton Brown. Ahead, check out all the ways your favorite food celebrities dress up their deviled eggs, and snag your favorite recipes for Easter and beyond.
Alton Brown: Pepper Speckled
Leave it to Alton Brown to take an unexpected approach to deviled eggs. His five-pepper deviled eggs are topped with a combination of five types of whole peppercorns: pink, white, black, green, and brined green. After grinding the peppercorns and sprinkling them on top of the eggs, you're left with a colorful egg that has a flavorful crunch in every bite.
Giada De Laurentiis: Crab Infused
Giada's deviled eggs with crab are exactly what you need if you're looking for a slightly elevated yet doable version of the classic Easter appetizer. Not only are the eggs stuffed with lump crab meat, but they also have an Italian flair thanks to mascarpone cheese.
Chrissy Teigen: Secretly Spicy
Want to be Chrissy Teigen's friend? The criteria, according to the cookbook author herself, are "you must never call and you must love deviled eggs. Parties and holidays were created for deviled eggs," she writes in the intro for her Secretly Spicy Deviled Eggs on page 132 of Cravings. She swears hers don't evoke any grandma vibes, and she's right: there's sriracha and pickled jalapeños.
Ree Drummond: With a Secret Ingredient
The Pioneer Woman's deviled eggs might seem standard at first, but there's one ingredient that sets them apart from the rest: pickle juice. Instead of just adding relish to the top as many people do, Ree Drummond recommends stirring a small amount (a teaspoon) of pickle juice into the yolk mixture so that the whole egg is flavored with tangy, salty goodness.
Sunny Anderson: Surprisingly Crunchy
Ever had a crunchy deviled egg before? Sunny Anderson's deviled eggs might convince you that's the only way to go. Sunny's trick is to add canned fried onions on top (yep, the good stuff from Thanksgiving). Lemon zest brightens them up, and pickled jalapeños add just the right amount of acidity.
Ina Garten: Topped With Smoked Salmon
Add a pop of pink to your spread with Ina Garten's smoked salmon deviled eggs. A decadent filling of sour cream and cream cheese makes these deviled eggs reminiscent of a lox bagel with cream cheese, save for the carbs. As always, Ina's recipe calls for "good mayonnaise," but yes, store-bought is fine.
Michael Symon: Make It a Party
Michael Symon's recipe for deviled eggs from The Chew encourages you to get creative with the toppings and make your deviled eggs truly worthy of a party. With a variety of toppings like crumbled bacon, fried shallots, chopped tarragon, and smoked salmon, there's something for everyone and no chance of getting bored.
Cop's Actions Shock a Mom Who Was Pulled Over Because Her Foster Kids Were Not in Car Seats
When a foster mom was called to take in a set of brothers, they arrived with the clothes on their backs - no extra clothes, coats, toys, or car seats. So when she was pulled over with two of the boys in the back seat of the car the next morning by a Tennessee State Trooper, his first question was unsurprisingly, "Why are the two boys in the back seat not in car seats?"
After she explained her situation, rather than give her a ticket, she says Officer Tidwell was kind to her and the boys. "He asked me for my phone number. I gave it to him," the mom wrote in a post on her personal Facebook, which the Tennessee Highway Patrol page then shared.
His wife called me and asked about the boys. This morning Officer Tidwell met me in Waverly, him and his wife had purchased gifts for the boys. Not just the two boys in the back seat but, their older brother too. I can not thank him enough for the kindness he has shown these three boys. I never asked him for anything. He and his wife acted out of the kindness of their hearts.
Although the mother was grateful for the generosity he showed her and the boys specifically, she's sharing his actions for a much larger reason. "He showed these boys that there are very nice cops out there and I hope he has left a lasting impression on them that cops are good. The boys has been telling everyone that 'cops are nice.' He has made their day. You hear way too much negative stuff nowadays, so here is some good news for you all."
After You See How Beautifully the Obamas Decorated the White House, You'll Wish President Trump Wasn't Changing It
Michelle Obama revealed her dazzling interior design skills when she transformed the White House's Old Family Dining Room from outdated traditional to cool contemporary. And now we know the former first lady led a similar overhaul of the White House residence. The Obamas recently opened up exclusively to Architectural Digest, revealing their rarely seen private living quarters.
White House interior designer Michael S. Smith - if that name sounds familiar, it's because the Obamas vacationed at his Palm Springs home immediately after leaving office - told Architectural Digest, "Mrs. Obama often talks about bringing new voices into the national conversation, and that idea informed many of the decisions we made. . . . We selected artists and designers who would never have appeared in the White House before." Mrs. Obama sang Michael's praise to the magazine, saying that his designs not only respected the history of the White House, but they also turned it into a warm family home for her husband and two young daughters.
Watch the video above to see Architectural Digest's exclusive tour of the Obamas' private living quarters, and then cross your fingers that the interior designer Melania Trump recently hired doesn't alter the stunning space too much.
The Surprising Truth About Refrigerating Butter
One of the most heated debates in the kitchen is whether or not you should refrigerate butter. Some people cringe at the thought of leaving butter on the countertop, while others swear there's nothing worse than cold, hard butter straight from the fridge. It's an understandable question with an even more complicated answer. The short answer? It's OK to leave it out - with some restrictions.
While butter is a dairy product, it's mostly fat, meaning that it's less susceptible to bacteria. Salted butter is even less prone to bacterial growth than unsalted butter because of its sodium content, so the shelf life of the two types of butter is slightly different. When it comes to leaving butter out of the fridge, the first important rule is that it should be kept in a butter crock or a similar airtight container. If butter is exposed to air, it spoils much more quickly. When properly sealed in the container after each use, salted butter sitting out in a crock will last about two weeks, according to Organic Authority. If room temperature in your kitchen reaches above 70°F, however, it's best to refrigerate ASAP. But unsalted butter is best left in the fridge at all times.
I went to college with a man, nay, a boy, who insisted on leaving butter on the counter and never refrigerated it.
- bobby shmerde (@asapnaf) March 29, 2017
@drewmagary I recently began leaving butter out. It is a life changer.
- Michael Clarke (@mClarkish) January 31, 2017
Dunno what annoys me more about my mums bf, the fact he butters one side of bread for a sandwich or him leaving the butter out the fridge
- kendo (@ALEXKEND0) February 1, 2017
If you need softened butter for baking but didn't give it a chance to reach room temperature, the trick is to grate the butter so it becomes soft.
Tarek El Moussa Just Revealed What Pushed Him to File For Divorce and It Might Shock You
When Tarek El Moussa filed for divorce from wife and HGTV partner in crime Christina El Moussa in December 2016, we had a lot of questions, and now, he's telling all. Tarek recently sat down with Us Weekly to talk about what caused his split, as well as that shocking incident where Christina called the cops on her then-husband in May of last year.
"It was a gradual thing over time," the Flip or Flop star said when asked about what went wrong in his marriage. "We were both very busy people with health issues and kids. We didn't fight, we just grew apart." He explained that his battle with cancer took a toll on their relationship, as well as Christina's fertility issues and their miscarriage after having Taylor, 6, and before welcoming Brayden, 16 months.
Although the news of their split was shocking, fans were even more shocked to find out that Tarek and Christina decided to continue filming the show despite their divorce. When asked if it was awkward, Tarek said, "You have good days and bad days. Now we say, 'Hi, good morning.' We film together and talk about houses and the kids. . . . We'll be together for the rest of our lives because we have kids. We need to get along for the kids and for our sanity."
True that! But things did not seem so cordial between the parents of two after the news broke that Christina called the cops on Tarek after he left their home with a handgun in his backpack. As for why she called 911, Tarek said, "You'd have to ask her. It was blown out of proportion. I went hiking in Chino Hills State Park. We have bobcats, mountain lions. I took my gun only for protection."
He said that they went through counseling to try to work things out, but they realized a separation was the right decision. "Over the Summer, I moved out," Tarek said. "We thought it was best to have space. We didn't want the kids to see us upset."
Although there were some suspicious rumors about Tarek hiring a private investigator to check on Christina, he refuted the claims and said he was "done worrying about the past."
So, how's he doing since the split? In addition to saying he's "totally moved on," Tarek truly sounds like he's living his best life. "My goal is to create memories, and I think I'm doing that," he said. "I'm the happiest I've been in a long time. It takes a situation like this, where you get knocked down and you rebuild yourself into the person you want to be. I'm becoming the person I want to be."
After Being Stared Down by a Couple in Cracker Barrel, This Dad Received a Note About Parenting
When Kevon Smith Sr. sat down for breakfast at Cracker Barrel with his son Kevon Jr. in Willoughby, OH, he had no idea he was going to make headlines just for being a good dad.
Kevon noticed a couple staring and smiling at him and his 3-month-old son, and although he was confused, he just went on with the meal. "I noticed this older couple over in the corner," he said. "They kept smiling at me and I was looking at my son like, 'What is going on?'"
But when Kevon left the restaurant, it all made sense, as he saw a note on his car from the couple praising his parenting along with cash to cover his breakfast.
"Today your meal is on my wife and me," it read. "Enjoy that baby as long as God intends. Keep doing what you're doing. The Masons."
These strangers were so amazed by Kevon and his relationship with his son, and he was just as moved by their generosity. "There's a lot of guys I know that aren't taking care of their kids," Kevon Sr. said, adding that he'll absolutely share the story with his son when he gets older to teach him that a little kindness can go a long way.
"I'm definitely going to make sure I'm paying it forward," he said. "I get blessed. I want to bless someone else."
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